The Junior Lead Instrumentation Engineer supports the planning, design, and implementation of sensor and data acquisition systems for aerospace testing projects. This entry-level leadership role assists in coordinating small teams, overseeing sensor integration efforts, and ensuring accurate and reliable test data collection across lab, ground, and flight testing environments.
Sensor & System Integration:
Assist in selecting, installing, and validating sensors (e.g., strain gauges, pressure transducers, thermocouples, accelerometers) on aircraft, engines, and test rigs.
Instrumentation Design Support:
Help develop basic sensor layout plans, wiring schematics, and DAU (data acquisition unit) configurations under the supervision of senior engineers.
Project Coordination:
Lead small instrumentation sub-tasks or teams, including technicians, ensuring timelines and quality standards are met for assigned components or subsystems.
Test Preparation:
Participate in pre-test system checks, functional verification, calibration routines, and sensor mapping efforts.
Troubleshooting & Quality Checks:
Support root-cause analysis and resolution of issues such as faulty readings, signal loss, or wiring mismatches during setup or testing.
Documentation & Reporting:
Prepare and maintain documentation for sensor layouts, installation procedures, calibration logs, and system changes.
Cross-Team Support:
Collaborate with design engineers, test engineers, and data analysts to ensure instrumentation requirements are met and integrated smoothly into the test process.
Safety & Compliance:
Adhere to all relevant safety protocols and aerospace quality standards (e.g., AS9100, FAA/EASA compliance).
Foundational Leadership Development:
Begin developing leadership skills by managing small instrumentation tasks and supporting technician coordination.
Technical Execution & Learning:
Build deep knowledge of aerospace sensor technologies, DAU configurations, and environmental testing challenges.
Signal Integrity & Data Reliability:
Learn best practices for clean signal routing, shielding, and connector handling to ensure reliable data capture.
Design-to-Implementation Insight:
Gain exposure to how instrumentation integrates into overall aircraft or subsystem testing strategies.
Team & Communication Skills:
Practice effective communication across engineering, operations, and testing groups to ensure clear alignment on instrumentation goals.
Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace, Electrical, Instrumentation, or Mechatronics Engineering
1–3 years of relevant experience in instrumentation, flight testing, or aerospace systems (internships included)
Familiarity with sensors, DAUs, and wiring practices
Ability to read technical drawings and interpret basic sensor specifications
Strong attention to detail, eagerness to learn, and early-stage team leadership interest
Knowledge of basic safety and quality systems used in aerospace testing